Shane didnt see Alice come through the door. Hey Shane.
Hey Shane almost sounded dismissive, but the actions showed that there was something wrong. As Alice approached the table, Both Dana and Alice were concerned about the obvious heated argument going on between Shane and Cleo.
Alice sat down but her eyes didnt make four with Danas. The action seemed more appealing. How you doing? Dana asked, trying to get Alices attention.
Ok, you Alice still didnt look at Dana.
Tonya and I set a date for the wedding this morning.
Thats good What?! Wait. What are you saying? What about? Alice shook her head and blinked her eyes in disbelief.
Oh.. so now I got your attention We need to talk about l. Dana was interrupted by Shane returning to the table. Everything ok Shane? What was that all about?
Oh nothing. Lets just drop it. Shane insisted. The conversation at the table swayed between the situation at Provocations between Marina and Jenny and whether or not Kit would sway to Ivan and current affairs. Time went by quickly and soon enough it was long after 10:00am.
Shane slouched back in her chair. Like the love birds are too tired to come out this morning?
Dana with a silly grin added as she nudged Alice Yeah like some people had their own provocations last night Shane had that youre unbelievable look on her face. Alice who would usually have a come back for that stuffed her mouth with the sandwich in an effort to avoid saying something she should not. Alice knew it was only a matter of time before the rest of the gang found out but they should from both Bette and Tina. Not Bette nor Tina but both together. Bette was the one to blame in all of this but there was no point in the gang taking sides.
They were just about done with a LATE breakfast. Well ladies I have to go Shane got up and left. Hey Shane Alice called back. You have plans for later? Shane was a bit evasive. She wanted to make one more attempt at Cherry. It was a dead end but she had hoped that she was wrong. Alice and Dana sat in silence for a few moments, then, as Dana was about to bring up the events of earlier that morning Maybe we could catch a movie later. Shane replied as she opened the door and walked out.
Dana looked at Alice and for the first time in for as long as Alice could remember she was not fooling around. So how long are you going to avoid talking about what happened this morning?
As long as I could. Alice joked. Her smile was soon cut short by the serious look on Danas face. Dana I dont even know why I did it. I mean I know why but I dont know why I did then and… I mean. What do I mean? I mean. Dana I think you know what I am trying to say Youre making this so hard
Dana interrupted. Slightly amused by Alices nervous blabbing I love you too. Alice was finally able to breathe. Even though Dana seemed in control she too was relieved that it was in the open. Alice looked down at the table So what do we do now?
Dana sighed, I dont know. Alice put her hand in Danas to let her know that whatever she decided she would support her decision.

***************

Tina did not sleep at all that night. Visions of Bette and Candace haunted her each time she closed her eyes. Tinas heart broke when she saw Bette with Candace. Her reason for living was ripped from beneath her. Bette loved someone else. Why else would she sleep with her? She didnt even deny it. When I confronted her she could have said its not what you think. Typical line but at least I could have forced myself to give her the benefit of the doubt.
Tee? You awake? Alice opened the bedroom door. Tina didnt hear her come home. Shane and Dana asked for you. Wondered why you and Bette didnt show up for breakfast.
You didnt tell them did you? Tina asked with worry and anticipation.
Dont worry I didnt say anything.
What am I going to Al? She promised me. She said I would be safe with her. Seven years Al and she through it away just like that. Tina looked away almost to wonder in a time when she and Bette were happy. I still love her. The funny thing is if Bette were to walk through that door I probably would forgive her. Alice could not offer any words of comfort at that moment. But Tina was appreciative of the silence. She needed to think things through on her own. The phone rang. It was Bette. Um hi yeah shes shes how she should be give her time I dont think you should. Yeah I understand that but Bette please dont do this. Think about it for a second, if the shoe was on the other f ok. Ill tell her I promise Ill yeah Ill call you later
Um. Tee that was.
I know. Is she? Tina was still concerned about Bette but she tried to hide it. What did she want?
Tee, Bette loves you. She
Alice dont.
Im sorry. I just hate that
Tina reached over and hugged Alice. The phone rang again. Without first looking to see who it was Alice answered Look Bette, I said she will.
Alice? Dana sounded confused. Its me Dana.
Oh hey Im sorry I thought whats up?
Tonya um can we meet later? I want to give us a chance but I dont know how to tell Tonya. I dont want to hurt her. But I guess there is no other way huh?
Dane I think we need to talk. Meet me here hold on She moved the phone down and covered the moth piece. Tee can Dana come by later? Would that be ok?
Umm sure. Why you ask?
I mean if youre not ready we
Its ok Al she can come. Alice continued on the phone Come by later. We could talk.